Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, palmitoyl tripeptide-1, sweetbriar rose oil, jojoba oil | Shades: 4 | Finish: sheer
Best for Dry Lips: Biossance Pro-Peptide Lip Perfector
Why we love it: The star ingredient in Biossance’s always-silky-never-sticky Pro-Peptide Lip Perfector is a patented pro-peptide developed specifically for the lips. The biotech-derived chain of amino acids smooths and plumps the lips, while micro-encapsulated hyaluronic acid nurtures dry skin. Because the actives in this formula are encapsulated, releasing slowly over time, their effects last longer. This particular form of hyaluronic acid also has a high molecular weight, which lends itself to lasting hydration.“This leaves my lips feeling hydrated throughout the day,” says Kiran Mian, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. The treatment has a delicate vanilla scent, and, in addition to its straight-up-balm iteration, comes in a few sweet hues.“I love their pigments,” Dr. Mian says.
Key ingredients: palmitoyl tripeptide-1, micro-encapsulated hyaluronic acid, sugarcane-derived squalane | Shades: 3 | Finish: glassy
Best for Chapped Lips: Eadem Le Couchou Exfoliating + Softening Peptide Lip Balm
Why we love it: Think of this lip-cocooning treatment as an ultra-luxe, exfoliating ChapStick. Made with hibiscus enzymes and lactic acid, Eadem’s Le Couchou Lip Softening Balm is a super salve for cracked lips. Corey L. Hartman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Alabama, agrees. “Anyone with dry, peeling lips or anyone looking for exfoliation would like this. The formula has alpha hydroxy acids and peptides that help smooth out rough skin, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and plump the skin in the lips,” Dr. Hartman explains. The shiny finish can be attributed to the brand’s proprietary Spreadit Polymer, which allows for a smooth spread and supreme glossiness, all without bleeding past the edges of your lips. It’s also infused with intensely moisturizing natural butters, the treatment comes in five sweet shades.
Key ingredients: palmitoyl hexapeptide-12, palmitoyl tripeptide-1, lactic acid, Brazilian açaí and African mongongo butters | Shades: 5 | Finish: glossy
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a peptide lip treatment do?
“Lip peptides are effective for enhancing lip appearance by boosting collagen production, which helps keep lips firm and smooth,” says Dr. Lee. “They also improve hydration, making lips plump and well-moisturized, and reduce the appearance of fine lines while supporting overall repair. Essentially, [peptide lip treatments] help maintain youthful and healthy-looking lips.” Many peptide lip treatments also come in tinted iterations, so you don’t need to sacrifice pizzazz for nourishment.
Do collagen peptides help lips?
Collagen peptides are itty-bitty forms of protein derived from plant or animal collagen, found in everything from skin care to coffee creamer. But do they work topically on the lips? “Absolutely,” Dr. Lee confirms. “Collagen peptides focus on the production and maintenance of collagen, which is essential for the firmness and elasticity of the skin. When used regularly on the lips, collagen peptides will improve and help maintain the shape, volume, and texture of the lips.”
Do peptide lip balms work?
“Peptide lip balms can be effective for improving lip texture and hydration,” Dr. Lee says. However, “The results can vary based on factors such as the concentration and type of peptides used, as well as individual skin responses.” If you really want to go for the lip-plumping gold—and have the budget for it—consider pairing your balms with in-office treatments. “While peptide lip balms can provide noticeable improvements and support lip health, they generally offer more subtle effects than professional procedures [such as fillers, Botox, and microneedling],” she says. As such, “Peptide lip balms are best used as a complementary tool for maintenance, rather than a replacement for more intensive treatments.”
Meet the experts
- Corey L. Hartman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama
- Nicole Lee, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and owner of Epoch Dermatology in Garden City, New York
- Margarita Lolis, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon based in Hackensack, New Jersey
- Celeste Rodrigues, an aesthetician based in Los Angeles
- Kiran Mian, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Hudson Dermatology and Laser Surgery in New York City
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.